An Expression of Interest with a cheque attached is the only kind the developer takes seriously.
An EOI is a formal declaration by a buyer indicating interest in a project or specific unit type before official sales launch, typically submitted with a refundable pre-booking cheque of AED 10,000 to AED 50,000 held at the developer’s side. The cheque is the point. Without it, the EOI is a name on a list. With it, the buyer moves up the priority queue for unit selection on launch day. On oversubscribed launches — think Emaar’s Dubai Creek Harbour releases or top Nakheel projects — the EOI cheque is the only path to a real unit.
On a recent Palm Jumeirah branded residence launch I submitted EOIs for three client positions. Refundable cheques of AED 50,000 each. Two converted to bookings on launch morning with premier unit selection. One did not, and the cheque returned within 10 days.
Treat EOI cheques like reservation deposits with exit clauses. Always verify the refund policy in writing before depositing. If the developer is vague on refund mechanics, the cheque is already riskier than it looks.
Related: Booking Window, Reservation Form, Early Access, Launch Phase.
From first call to keys in hand
Most buyers underestimate how many decisions sit between a shortlist and a signed title deed. We handle MoU, SPA, NOC, escrow coordination, and handover inspection as a single workflow. Start with a call or see what’s on the market.
